Pok’s College Football Column: End of Spring Ball Thoughts

Blink and you may have missed spring ball at the college football level.

With the calendar quickly approaching the month of May, most schools have concluded the first portion of the 2026 season. Through 15 practices and their respective spring games, teams got a chance to see their newcomers and returning players progress, setting a foundation for the summer and fall months.

In the latest edition of “Pok’s College Football Column,” we recap the springs for the FIU Panthers, Florida Atlantic Owls, and USF Bulls. There is plenty to get into, so without further ado, let us get things started!

College Football: Spring Ball Thoughts

FIU Thoughts, Spring Edition

If you are looking for a comprehensive overview of FIU’s college football spring game, The League Winners’ own Kevin Barral and I have you covered right here!

For this college football column, I wanted to cover my overall thoughts from the Panthers’ spring practice sessions. Attending most of them, I had a chance to see the team grow from the start of March until the middle of April. There were plenty of positives on both sides of the ball, along with some key players that emerged.

Offense

On the offensive side of the ball, everything for FIU builds upon one key development: this unit is fast and explosive.

Like last spring, the wideout position was a major talking point. Even with Alex Perry departing, the Panthers returned multiple key contributors. They also added some fun players to their roster from the transfer portal and high school ranks. And, just like 2025, the room showed out throughout spring ball.

There are legitimately so many names that not only had big plays throughout the spring, but also produced on a consistent basis. Kyle McNeal and Greg Gaines III, operating as outside receivers and in the slot, found success in a variety of ways throughout every practice. Both players won with good route-running at all levels of the field. McNeal was very twitchy as well, showing off the speed to turn small gains into big ones. Gaines III showed the veteran savvy of a player who understood the game, especially when it came to running routes against zone coverage. Add in the after-the-catch ability, and you have a player who was truly a spring standout.

Jojo Stone, Eric Nelson, Maguire Anderson, and Malik Penson were no slouches, either. Stone was utilized as a chess piece all over the field, and the offense found ways to get him the ball on a consistent basis. He thrived in the slot, ran great routes at outside receiver, and created big-time plays as a ball carrier. Looking bulkier as well, Stone truly looks primed to break out in 2026.

Whenever he has gotten on the field, Nelson made big play after big play. His route running and strength looked to be improved from 2025. Combined with his trademark speed and athletic ability, Nelson was a reliable producer for whoever was on the field at quarterback. Anderson, who emerged last season, was rock solid as a route runner and made some impressive diving catches. Penson, an early-enrollee from True North Classical Academy, displayed great route running and a fearless ability to make plays over the middle of the field. Even without being the biggest wideout, Penson is the type of player that will give FIU good snaps whenever he steps on the field.

My favorite wideout this spring, though, was Tyson Carter. A second-year player for the Panthers, the wideout did a little bit of everything over the course of the team’s practices. He got the ball on designed touches, showing off a nice ability to read blocks and make defenders miss in space. His route running looked more refined, allowing him to win at every level of the field. Carter’s play strength was also improved; the wideout made multiple contested catches down the field.

Most impressively, though, was Carter’s speed. The wideout, who runs his 40-yard dash in the 4.20s and can hit over 21 miles per hour, won consistently down the field all spring. He created separation and gave his quarterbacks the ability to hit big-time throws, even when facing some of the best defensive backs on the team. Carter brings true elite speed to the table, something that FIU’s offense has been looking for much more of. If he continues to build upon his game into fall camp, Carter could earn plenty of snaps and have a big 2026 season.

At running back, Anthony Carrie, Sterling Joseph, and Devonte Lyons have the makings of a fun and explosive group.

Carrie added weight this offseason, and it showed in his play. The running back broke more tackles and was very willing to take on contact in between the tackles. Even with a bulkier frame, Carrie did not lose his explosiveness. He had multiple big runs and even won vertically in the passing game. Joseph, a second-year player who had a tremendous first game against Sam Houston last year, ran with impressive power this spring. He looked great in short yardage situations, with the running back converting two touchdowns during the spring game.

The best of the group, though, was Lyons. In his second year in the scheme, the running back looks comfortable in every aspect of the game. Lyons’ vision was top-tier in the run game. It truly felt like he did not make wrong decisions when carrying the ball. He was elusive and dynamic in space, breaking tackles and making defenders miss. Lyons was also a fun asset in the passing game, especially as a check-down option.

The Panthers have a ton of work to do to replicate the production from an all-time player for them in Kejon Owens. But if the room produces the way it did in the spring, it should be able to have another good year as a group in the 2026 college football season.

For this offense to be explosive, though, the quarterback and offensive line need to perform at a high level. And based on the spring, FIU may be in a good spot with these two categories once again.

JJ Kohl, who FIU added in the portal this offseason, showed the makings of a quarterback ready to unlock the offense. He was accurate to an impressive extent and had the arm strength to hit throws to every level of the field. Kohl was also on time with his throws. It was a very rare occurrence for the quarterback to get to a read late or misread a defense.

The underrated parts of Kohl’s game were his athleticism and touch. For a quarterback of his style, Kohl had a high level of “bucket drop throws” this spring. In other words, he consistently put the ball where only his playmakers could get it. Kohl also displayed scrambling and designed running ability. If this translates to the regular season, it will be a new element that FIU can add to its offense this season.

To quickly touch on the backup quarterback from this spring, I was very impressed with what DJ Alexander showed. An early enrollee from Georgia, Alexander had some of the typical freshman struggles at the position, such as being late on some reads and having some interceptions. However, the highs were just as frequent for the quarterback.

The freshman quarterback was good on throws over the middle of the field, especially on in-breaking routes. Alexander threw with great anticipation and accuracy, allowing his wideouts to make big plays. He also displayed nice arm strength, touch, and overall mobility throughout the practices. Alexander hit deep passes to all areas of the field, was able to layer passes between defenders at times, and even picked up some first downs with his legs.

The freshman quarterback should not have to be thrust into game action this season, as the Panthers have both Kohl and Delaware transfer Zach Marker. But heading into 2027 and beyond, expect Alexander to be a key part of FIU’s plans at quarterback.

Regarding the offensive line, the unit had its ups and downs throughout the spring. However, that is normal for a unit breaking in multiple new starters and possible contributors. Yet, these highs occurred almost every practice in all areas of the game.

As pass blockers, the unit consistently gave Kohl enough time to make big throws from the pocket. I was specifically impressed with tackle Jeremy Smith, who showed great footwork and overall play strength through the spring sessions. On the ground, the unit opened some big lanes and allowed the running backs to make plays. Without the blocking, Devonte Lyons and Anthony Carrie do not break off as many big runs as they did.

Defense

If I were to grade things on an overall scale, the offense came out as the slight winners for the entire spring. But with that being said, the team’s defense finished very strongly over the last few weeks and through the spring game.

Outside of the trenches, specifically in the spring game, the main group that stood out to me on defense was the secondary. As the practices marched on, it felt like a different player, or multiple players, were finding a way to make an impact.

At cornerback, FAU transfer Lawrence Johnson was highly competitive and productive in every facet of the game. He was very physical as a run defender, attacking downhill and making plays in space. The pass coverage from the cornerback, though, was even better; Johnson was all over routes and had multiple interceptions. Most impressively, Johnson knew exactly where to be on the large majority of plays. He looks to be a player who will be a great asset for the Panthers in 2026.

In addition to Johnson, Lafayette transfer Ryan Gadson was consistently making plays in coverage, as was true freshman Karijus Hayes. Demetrius Hill had some of the biggest hits of the spring, consistently making players think twice about catching the ball over the middle of the field. He also had multiple interceptions, displaying ball skills that could translate to 2026 success.

Freshmen Eric Johnson and Jakari Johnson made big-time tackles and plays, as did Shamir Sterlin, Tyderick Brown, Duke transfer Da’Vontae Floyd, and South Alabama transfer Wesley Miller.

At linebacker, Josiah Taylor led the charge for the Panthers’ defense. Whether it was his leadership ability, run-stuffing moments, or impressive speed/coverage ability, the linebacker attacked every rep over the spring. Taylor looks so much more comfortable at the position after a year full of experience. As a result, expect him to be a vital piece of the FIU defense in 2026.

Alongside the returning Taylor, Percy Courtney Jr. had moments of being a heat-seeking missile in the run game. Brayshawn Littlejohn flashed nice coverage instincts and tackling ability when on the field. Kani Smith and JaCorey “Pickle” Stewart, a Kansas transfer, displayed tremendous speed and hit power all spring long. Most importantly, their instincts and play recognition got better every day, culminating in a spring game performance where they were all over the field making plays.

Finally, we arrive at the trenches. While there were great flashes all throughout the spring, the spring game was where the unit truly showed the depth it could have in 2026.

Matthew Pointer looked like a force coming off the edge, as did Dante Anderson, Lamont Green Jr., and Nick Watson. Nathan Jennings pushed the pocket from the interior, as did Kyrie Samuel and Anthony Smith. This is not to mention the contributions of other players from across the spring, such as RJ Moss Jr. and Germaine Carter. 

Heading into the 2026 college football season, the defensive trenches are a big factor for the Panthers. The success they had in that area was a vital part of how they became bowl eligible in 2025, especially once arriving in C-USA play. If the unit looks like it did this spring during the fall, FIU could be in store for another leap.

FAU Spring Game Recap and Overall Thoughts

Compared to last college football  season, the spring game for the Florida Atlantic Owls was a bit different this season.

Head coach Zach Kittley, in an effort to keep key contributors like Caden Veltkamp, Wilky Denaud and Easton Messer healthy, limited reps for veterans or flat-out held them out of the game. Instead, the Owls utilized the game to get younger players live-action game reps over the course of a full game. And throughout this game, plenty of players showed that they have the talent to make an impact for FAU this year or in the future.

Offense

On the offensive side of the ball, running backs Kaden Shields-Dutton and Leonard Farrow really stood out with how they played. Shields-Dutton, who had some impressive performances down the stretch of the 2025 season, looked even better as a runner in the spring game. His vision, combined with a downhill running style, allowed him to consistently churn out yardage. Shields-Dutton also looked comfortable in space, whether as a pass-catcher or ball carrier. He looked more shifty and explosive, even while still having the build of a power back.

Farrow, a transfer from Fairmont State, showcased good speed right away. On a handoff during the spring game, the running back found a seam and raced for a huge gain, flipping the field in the process. He also had good vision during the game. Farrow was extremely patient and consistently found the right lanes to attack in the run scheme.

At wideout, Easton Messer starred in limited snaps without his starting quarterback, Caden Veltkamp. The Owls’ standout showcased good route running, speed, and quickness on multiple receptions. He carried the offense down the field on essentially his only drive of the game, capping off his night with a win on a corner route to get the offense into the red zone. If it was not evident already, Messer is in store for a big-time 2026 season if he stays healthy.

Outside of Messer, the Owls had three other wideouts showcase impressive skillsets during the spring game.

Kelby Valsin, a Texas Tech transfer, capped off an impressive spring with a great performance in the game. The wideout was consistently generating separation, especially when he was able to use his speed deep down the field. Despite the quarterback not hitting the throws, Valsin was open enough for him to have scored three touchdowns in the game. On his one touchdown, though, Valsin showed off his play strength, making a contested catch and powering into the end zone.

Underclassman wideout Jahmari Powell-Wonson, a Maryland transfer, concluded an impressive spring by showing off his skill set in game action. On a throw over the middle of the field, the wideout hit a sick spin move and turned a modest gain into a huge chunk for the offense. Nicsaint Joseph Jr., a freshman from Miami Northwestern, made an extremely impressive contested catch early in the spring game, continuing his own impressive spring. However, he suffered an injury on the play and did not return; his status going forward is unknown. Regardless of his 2026 status, though, it is clear that FAU has some very impressive weapons for the present and future.

Defense

On defense, a few players caught my eye over the course of the spring game.

Freshman Justin Weatherall, a defensive back for the Owls, showed a level of play in coverage that is very rare for an underclassman. He jumped a route for an interception, made a big-time pass breakup, and had a great tackle in space. Weatherall’s talent has always been apparent on the defensive side of the ball, and he can be a key contributor if he earns snaps for the Owls. Even if he does not play in 2026, though, the future is very bright for the defensive back.

On the defensive line, Kenyon Garner and Josh Roberts had impressive performances. Both showcased their pass-rushing and run-defense skills, making big plays consistently throughout the game. Roberts, even while adding weight to his frame, notched a sack and still played with the explosiveness that he displayed in his freshman year. Garner, a prized pickup in the transfer portal, was extremely explosive off the edge throughout the game. He also displayed nice run defense ability, which will help him get snaps during the regular season.

While the spring game provided a nice foundation ahead of fall camp, there was much more to the spring than just one game. Here are some of the other players and things that stood out from FAU’s spring practices:

• JUCO WR transfer Antojuan Woody was heavily praised by Zach Kittley during the spring. He is another player alongside Powell-Wonson and Joseph Jr. that could contribute in the future for the Owls.
• Other players praised by the HC included TE AJ Johnson, LB Joseph Sipp LB Hector Chavez, DL Blake Burris, DE Jay Crable, and DE Jonathan Bax.
• Based on Kittley and his staff’s quotes, FAU seems much more focused and in lockstep in 2026. Between DC Brett Dewhurst wanting “to do simple better,” the defensive ends channeling the mindset of the Predator, and the wideouts aiming to lead the offense to 6,000 passing yards, there are clear goals for every area of the team. I am truly fascinated to see how things play out for the Owls this season.

USF Spring Game Thoughts

Even while cognizant of not giving “too much” away, the spring football game for the USF Bulls provided some insight into what the college program could bring to the table this season.

Offense

On offense, the conversation has to begin with the run game for the Bulls. Despite mixing and matching offensive linemen, the unit created lanes for the running backs to create big-time plays for the offense. And when they got the ball in their hands, the running backs did just that.

Jason Collins Jr, the Morgan State transfer, showed off impressive vision, burst, and pure long speed. Once finding the open lane, the running back churned out chunk yardage at a very high clip and looked like one of the best pure ballcarriers this spring. Chase Garnett, while not the “pure speed” type, ran with great power and strength on a consistent basis. He churned out nice yardage, ran through tackles, and even got in the endzone during the spring game. Between these two players, I was very intrigued about the potential of what the USF run game could be in 2026.

However, Garnett and Collins Jr. were not the only players to show off their skills.

Tray Kinkle and D.J. Crowther ran with burst whenever they touched the ball, with each player providing some nice carries. Connor Matthews ripped off a huge touchdown run in the game, utilizing his weight-lifting background to great success. And this all occurred without a very high upside player in Jayson Franklin getting carries.

It remains to be seen how the run game will translate to the 2026 season. And, spring ball is not always an indicator of regular-season success. However, if USF can replicate this style in the fall, the team should be able to have offensive success on a regular basis.

An offense cannot thrive, though, without a passing attack. And while not perfect, USF showed some interesting flashes at quarterback and wideout.

In the two-man battle between Michael Van Buren and Luke Kromenhoek, both players showed the different skill sets that they could bring to the table in 2026. Van Buren, a transfer from LSU, was consistently on time and very accurate in key spots. More impressive was the quarterback’s scrambling ability. Van Buren knew exactly when to take off and extend plays, keeping drives alive in the process.

Kromenhoek, a Mississippi State transfer, had the game’s only turnover on a somewhat errant pass that was snagged by Jair Murphy. Outside of that throw, though, the quarterback had some of the better throws of the entire game. He was hitting his pass catchers in stride, hitting throws in tough windows, and keeping drives on schedule.

The final decision has not been made at quarterback, and that should not be expected until August. But in their own unique ways, Van Buren and Kromenhoek have traits that the offense should be able to utilize well, and that is a good sign.

Wrapping up the offense, the Bulls saw their pass catchers flash all throughout the spring game.

Jaron Glover, Cam Seldon, Joshua Porter, and Kenny Odom stood out at the wideout position. Glover and Seldon were dynamic in the multiple ways they were asked to touch the ball, while Porter and Odom displayed nice route running and hands. Add in Bryson Rodgers, who had a nice spring but was quiet in the game itself, and there are plenty of options for the Bulls to utilize in 2026.

The more fascinating development for the USF offense was the tight end position. Shifting to a more “pro-style” scheme, the Bulls had their tight ends doing a little bit of everything, whether it was running vertically or blocking on run plays. Evan Dangler had multiple big catches, while Wyatt Sullivan, Kade Caton, and Ryley Zalusky made some nice plays. If this is just a glimpse of what the Bulls’ tight ends could do this season, it’ll be exciting to see what the group can accomplish.

Defense

Shifting to the defense, every level of the unit made plays over the course of the game.

In the trenches, Shamar Meikle, Christian Smith, Demetrius Geathers Jr., and Ryan Jenkins had very impressive pass rush reps. I was specifically impressed by Meikle, who flashed impressive bend ability around the corner to notch his sack. Geathers Jr., a player who I was very high on out of West Boca, used his pass rushing move set to notch a key sack on fourth down. Additionally, Asani Redwood, Marcus Williams, Peter Ramil, and Terry Simmons Jr. had great run defense reps. Ramil specifically showed nice play strength and hand usage on his reps.

At linebacker, Sam Robinson, Rodney Hil Jr., Gavin Leach, and Grayson Howard had multiple good plays against the run, while Dennis “Tank” King III flashed some good coverage ability. Robinson, a Rutgers transfer, flashed the athletic ability that could make him a fun player in Josh Aldridge’s defense.

In the secondary, Teddy Foster was very impressive in coverage. Jair Murphy had one of the plays of the day with his diving interception, while Amarion Fortenberry, JR Rosenberg, Amari Jones, and Jermichael Gillis had some good overall reps.

Yet if one were to pick a “best” defensive player from the spring game, it would be cornerback Masiyah Limehouse.

A true freshman who was an early college enrollee for the Bulls, the cornerback was all over the field making plays in the spring game. Limehouse had pass breakups and provided lockdown coverage all day long. His speed and instincts were impressive as well. Even while being an underclassman, Limehouse knew what to do on almost every play.

It is not always common for underclassmen to start, but it has become a bit more frequent in recent years. Even on a team with so many transfers, there’s a world where Limehouse forces his way onto the field for the Bulls in some capacity in 2026. And if he does that, he could have a very nice impact for the defense.